Understanding NDIS Reports: What Occupational Therapists and Speech Pathologists Provide
- claire2876
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
When you’re preparing for an NDIS plan review or trying to secure funding for ongoing support, documentation matters. Clear, well-written therapy reports give the NDIA the information they need to understand your needs, track your progress, and justify the supports you’re requesting.
At South Coast Therapy & Support Group, our team of occupational therapists and speech pathologists regularly prepares a variety of reports for NDIS participants. In this guide, we break down the most common report types, who they’re for, and when they’re needed.
Functional Capacity Assessments (FCAs)
What Is It?
A functional capacity assessment is a detailed report written by an occupational therapist to evaluate a participant’s ability to perform daily activities. It assesses strengths, challenges, and support needs across areas such as self-care, mobility, communication, social interaction, learning, and participation.
When Is It Needed?
Before your first plan
For significant plan changes or funding increases
To support access to Supported Independent Living (SIL), Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), or Independent Living Options (ILO)
What It Includes:
Overview of current function
Impact of disability
Daily living observations
Environmental factors
Recommendations for support hours, equipment, or therapy
Therapy Summary Letters
What Is It?
A summary letter is a brief document outlining therapy progress, current goals, and recommendations for future support. It can be written by an OT or speech pathologist and is especially useful for clients who don’t require a full functional report.
When Is It Needed?
Before plan reviews (if needs are stable)
As evidence to continue therapy funding
When multiple reports aren’t needed
What It Includes:
Brief summary of therapy goals and achievements
Update on progress
Ongoing needs and support recommendations
Progress Update Reports
What Is It?
This report is shorter than a full assessment and typically used for new clients or clients seen recently who haven’t yet had long-term intervention. It provides enough detail to justify the need for ongoing therapy.
When Is It Needed?
When therapy is in early stages
During mid-plan reviews or unscheduled reviews
For adult clients requesting therapy extensions
What It Includes:
Initial findings
Outline of early progress
Clear plan for future sessions and goals
Assistive Technology (AT) Reports
What Is It?
An AT report supports the request for NDIS funding of assistive equipment (e.g. wheelchairs, beds, communication devices). It is written by an OT (or SLP for communication devices).
When Is It Needed?
When requesting funding for any equipment over $1,500
To support mid or high-cost AT applications
What It Includes:
Trial outcomes
Photos and measurements
Functional justification for equipment
Quotes and risk assessments
Specialist Reports: SIL, SDA, and ILO
Our OTs also write comprehensive reports for:
SIL (Supported Independent Living)
SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation)
ILO (Independent Living Options)
These are in-depth assessments required for major housing or accommodation requests under the NDIS. They involve collaboration with support coordinators, families, and other providers.
How We Work With Clients
At South Coast Therapy & Support Group:
We collaborate with clients, caregivers, and support teams
We plan reports 6–8 weeks before plan reviews
We offer planning meetings to clarify goals and needs
We ensure reports align with NDIS language and priorities
You don’t have to navigate the process alone—our admin team supports scheduling and document coordination so nothing is missed.
Need a Report for Your Next Plan Review?
Whether you need a functional capacity assessment, summary letter, or assistive technology recommendation, our team can help. We’ll make sure your reports are comprehensive, goal-aligned, and ready on time.
Join our waitlist now and we’ll support you through every step of your NDIS journey.
